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Saturday, August 04, 2007

Is this Evangelism?

I don't want to sound as if I am being critical of these fellas, because I am not. I remember too often being in similar situations and responding in like fashion. The longer the conversation goes, the more frustrating it often becomes. And when frustration sets in, you tend to say things that are true, but not edifying. It probably does not help this was all in front of the camera. When the camera is rolling we tend to perform for it. Nevertheless, I am sure these gentlemen mean well and are seeking to stand for the truth. I just wonder if you think this is biblical evangelism. Take a look and decide.

I woke up from my Saturday nap overhearing my wife listening to this video (so you know it betta be good!). Two points:1. I don't think it's biblical evangelism along with Robert and Gunny. Certainly by the end, our brother seemed more concerned with being right and "shuttin' down" the fellas in error (been there, done that myself).2. But, I am glad to see a hard-boiled, doo-rag wearing, SUV rolling brother familiar with the scripture and defending the faith. I think a few stereotypes were just busted!

The Mormons are notoriously racist, also, which I suppose could account for some of the anger felt by the recipient of their schpiel.

and finally, a very quick perusal of the site this video was posted on, as well as the things he said towards the end about "Israel", cause me to wonder if there are bigger problems here than just his evangelism style . . .

I'd have to say that the guy in white had the opportunity to share the gospel, and although he did testify to the truthfulness of the Bible, he never got the conversation back around to Jesus.

I don't know personally any of the people involved, so I don't know if this is how they typically talk with mormons. I would however discourage evangelists from "shutting down" someone they are witnessing to. Asking good questions and listening to people is important because they will tell us if they understand the gospel.

For example, every Mormon I've talked with had a really messed up view of who Jesus is and how men are saved.

"they at least will come with their guards up and stereotypes down next time they approach a black dude looking like the ones in the video"

What about the stereotype of the uber-hubris urban black who has more attitude than light? This gentleman came across as very prideful. Evangelism is not an NFL victory dance or a WWF smackdown. That's the way he sounded to me.

In looking at this video, it is clear to me that this was not evangelism. This can be proven from a number of reasons:

(1) It seemed to be more focused on proving the Mormons religious views wrong than on telling them about Christ.

(2)The initial attitude of the brother was one of "attack" than evangelizing. He semmed to be salivating at his chance to embarass them on camera. Equally, the laughter of the people that was with him verifies this.

(3) The "white boy" comment at the end was uncalled for. To me, it sort of came off that he was happy to be a black man "shutting up" two white guys about spiritual convictions. Apparently, the brother may want to deal with some racial issues that he has.

Don't get me wrong, I love the fact that this brother could defend his faith against these people (because sadly, the majority of blacks I know can't do this), but he left them stewing in anger over the way he said things instead of pondering what he was saying about the Christian faith.